Pundit blames substitutions for Manchester United defeat against Brighton

Former Manchester United midfielder Owen Hargreaves has blamed Erik ten Hag for his poor substitutions following a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Brighton on Saturday.

It was United’s first defeat of the season after beating Fulham 1-0 at Old Trafford last week. This time United lost to Brighton courtesy of a stoppage-time winner converted by Joao Pedro.

United deserved more from the game, but can only have themselves to blame for conceding two soft goals. Amad Diallo’s equaliser cancelled out Danny Welbeck’s opener and Erik ten Hag’s side had two goals disallowed by VAR.

After the match, Hargreaves aimed a dig at Ten Hag and his substitutions for negatively affecting the outcome of the game. He believes that taking off Harry Maguire and Bruno Fernandes was a mistake.

Speaking to Premier League Productions, Hargreaves said: “I think they [Man United] lost it on the subs. Bruno Fernandes’ face was unbelievable; he was thinking, ‘You’re taking me off?’ Then he took Harry Maguire off, which affected the shape.”

On the other hand, the former England international was quick to praise Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler for his positive substitutions.

Hargreaves added: “The subs from Hurzeler were positive, even at a point when most people thought the game was over.”

United face Liverpool next weekend.

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